Why Edualist?

Özlem Çimen
Education Professional | Parent-Student Coach | Expat Mother

For over 20 years, I served as an English teacher, department head, and school administrator at some of Turkey’s most prestigious private schools, including TED Istanbul College, ENKA Schools, and Istanbul International Community School (IICS). I trained in IB programs and had the privilege of guiding hundreds of students.

But when life took my own family on an international relocation journey, I encountered the other side of the coin: being a parent.

When it was time to choose schools for my own children, despite all my experience in education, I found myself completely overwhelmed. Questions like "Where do I start? How do the applications work? How will my children adapt to this new system?" kept me awake at night — just as they might be doing for you right now.

Experience-Backed Confidence

Throughout our international relocation journey, my children and I gained educational experience across different countries, cultures, and school systems. My daughter began her education at the age of four at Singapore International School and later continued in the French education system across four different countries. During our time in Baku, following the closure of the French School, she transferred to TISA where she received English-language education through the IB MYP curriculum; she simultaneously continued her French education through homeschooling via CNED, affiliated with the French Ministry of Education. My son began primary school in Myanmar, continued his education at well-established schools in Istanbul and Baku, and is now successfully pursuing the IBDP program at GEMS Dubai American Academy.

Living and studying across five countries taught our family that finding the right school and educational pathway is not a problem to be solved with a one-size-fits-all approach. Every child is different, and finding the right academic environment requires careful guidance, understanding, and a personalized approach.

Professional Experience & Educational Expertise

EDUALIST combines personal international relocation experience with strong educational knowledge and guidance. As a parent who has experienced different school systems across several countries, I understand all too well how challenging it can be for families to choose the right school, curriculum, and learning environment for their children.

Based in Dubai, UAE, I provide clear and personalized support to families in international K–12 education, school placements, academic transitions, and student development. My goal is to help each child find the educational path that best matches their academic needs, personality, strengths, and future goals.

Educational Leadership: Extensive experience as Middle School Vice Principal, Head of Foreign Languages Department, and English Teacher.

Specialized Language Coaching: Expert in EAL (English as an Additional Language) support designed to rapidly build academic confidence in non-native English speakers.

Global Strategic Thinking: An MBA in International Marketing from the USA and experience building and supporting local producers’ market presence in Myanmar; the ability to bring a highly organized and strategic vision to educational planning.

Certified Expertise:

• Child Protection for International Schools | TES (IICS) 2022
• Coaching School Leaders | Ann Wilson, ICF, Istanbul 2013–2016
• Differentiating Instruction | Harvard Graduate School of Education, USA | 2008
• IB Trainings | Zurich International School, Switzerland | 2002

The Edualist Mission

At Edualist, I don’t just share theoretical knowledge. This platform was created to ensure that your family’s major transition is well-planned, fully supported, and free of unnecessary anxiety.

My goal is to help your children walk into their new classrooms from their very first day not just as "the new student," but as confident, adaptable individuals.

I have walked this path myself, and I am ready to walk it with you again.